How to Prepare for your First Rehearsal — Step by Step Guide
I can't believe it's already the last week of February. Time flies! I was very fortunate to have an in-person performance opportunity this past weekend. The work involved playing 5 concerti for a professional video recording with just one 3 hour rehearsal and one 4 hour dress rehearsal. Since I haven't played in an orchestra for about a year, I wanted to make sure to sound my best. How did I do that? That's today's topic!
Here is the step-by-step guide on how to prepare for your first rehearsal!
1) Get the music ASAP
Sometimes, it takes a while to receive the music because the librarian needs some time to prepare them. If you know the program already and are public domain classical music, check IMSLP website to find your part. While you are there, download the scores also. You will need them in later steps.
2) Listen with the Score
Before you start practicing your part, find a recording of the piece on YouTube, Spotify, or your CD collection, find a comfortable seat, and listen as you follow the score. I like to conduct while listening so I can make sure that I'm interpreting the beat correctly. The purpose of this is so that you understand the big picture. Make a mental note on tricky tempo changes, difficult spots, and musical styles.
3) Listen again with your Part
Now you can get to your part and listen again, but have a pencil handy this time. If you are in the winds, brass, or percussion section, you have more rests than the string section. To avoid getting lost, you want to put in cues — noticeable instrument entrances.
4) Practice your Part
Now it's time to actually practice your part! Focus on the technically challenging passages first. Use a metronome. Practice slowly and accurately.
5) Play through with the Recording
Once you feel comfortable with your part, try playing along with the recording. This is a great way to practice staying in tempo and matching the style of the ensemble.
6) Rest & Mental Practice
The day before the rehearsal, don't over-practice. Do a light run-through, then rest. You can do mental practice — visualize yourself playing the difficult passages perfectly.
Good luck at your rehearsal! Remember, everyone is there to make music together. Go in with a positive attitude and enjoy the experience!